We began this archive as a means of assisting our visitors in answering
many of their health and diet questions, and in encouraging them to take a pro-active part
in their own health. We believe the articles and information contained herein are
true, but are not presenting them as advice. We, personally, have found that a
whole food vegan
diet has helped our own health, and simply wish to share with others the things we have
found. Each of us must make our own decisions, for it's our own body. If you
have a health problem, see your own physician.

Looking for an easy and natural way increase your vitality and improve your
overall well-being? Try eating more fiber!

The average American only gets about half the amount of fiber they need
everyday for their body to function optimally. According to the American Heart
Association (AHA), fiber helps lower cholesterol and is important for the
health of our digestive system. Both the AHA and the National Cancer Institute
recommend that we consume 25 to 30 grams of fiber daily.

Dietary fiber is a transparent solid complex carbohydrate that is the main
part of the cell walls of plants. It has two forms: soluble and insoluble.
Soluble fiber may help lower blood cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart
disease and stroke. Insoluble fiber provides the bulk needed for proper
functioning of the stomach and intestines. It promotes healthy intestinal
action and prevents constipation by moving bodily waste through the digestive
tract faster, so harmful substances don't have as much contact with the
intestinal walls.

Unfortunately, many people are not eating this much fiber, which is causing
serious cardiovascular health concerns. Recently the AHA and the FDA (Food and
Drug Administration) confirmed that coronary heart disease is the leading
cause of death in the United States, killing more people than any other
disease. It causes heart attack and angina (chest pain). A blood clot that
goes to the heart is considered a heart attack, but if it goes to the brain it
is a stroke. The AHA ranks stoke as the third most fatal disease in America,
causing paralysis and brain damage.

Eating a high-fiber diet can significantly lower our risk of heart attack,
stroke and colon cancer. A 19-year follow-up study reported in the November
2001 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine indicated that increasing bean and
legume intakes may be an important part of a dietary approach to preventing
coronary heart disease. Beans and legumes are high in protein and soluble
fiber. Another study reported in the January 2002 issue of the Journal of the
American College of Cardiology also suggests that increasing our consumption
of fiber-rich foods like whole grains, fruits and vegetables, can
significantly lower the risk of heart disease. Additionally, results from
recent studies at the American Institute of Cancer Research indicate
high-fiber protein-rich soy foods, such as textured soy protein (also known as
TVP) and tempeh, help in preventing and treating colon cancer.

Whole beans, soybeans and other legumes are excellent sources of fiber. A 1
cup serving of cooked navy beans contains about 19 grams of fiber! Always read
the Nutrition Facts label to find out the amount of, and the type of, fiber
contained in any particular food. To help you achieve your daily allotment of
fiber, here is a list of various foods with their fiber content.

Monique N. Gilbert, B.Sc. has received international recognition for
helping people improve their well-being, vitality and longevity. Her personal
coaching provides the motivation, guidance and support you need to naturally
get healthy and fit, reduce stress and anxiety, strengthen your immune system,
increase your energy levels, lower your cholesterol, improve your sleep, and
achieve your goals. For more information about Monique's coaching, visit
http://www.MoniqueNGilbert.com/

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